Katherine's Profile

Part-time Consultant and mother of two, Katherine is a cherished friend and source of great wisdom for the TalentWax team and her extended network of contacts.

How did you begin your career in Human Resources?
I saw an job ad in the local paper for a Trainee Recruitment Consultant, working for Integrity Personnel. I was looking to get into a profession where I could help people and thought helping others to find a job would be ideal.

What inspired you to become a TalentWax Consultant?
First impressions really do count. If a resume isn’t up to scratch, has spelling mistakes, or is vague on experience then it makes it very difficult to make that first impression and get an interview. I love to work with people on a personal level, get to know them and help them realise and most importantly communicate their strengths. Coaching people on how best to secure an interview is the first step in helping them secure a job.

What do you believe are the main differences between TalentWax and other career support services?
The one on one style of coaching and communication. Our clients are matched with our consultants on a range of personality traits and interests, strengthening the interaction and trust required in a learning situation.

What do you think are the main challenges facing job hunters at present?
Without a doubt, the level of competition from other potential job hunters. Hiring managers have more choice of available candidates than recent years.

What elements of the job application process do you think are commonly mishandled among candidates?
Sending resumes and cover letters by email, without checking the attached documents relate to the advertised job. Poorly worded emails are also a cause for concern.

What advice would you have for those people who could improve in these areas?
Take extra care and attention before emailing your resume and covering letter. Ensure there are no mistakes and you have addressed the required criteria in your covering letter. If you have a weakness in spelling or grammar, ensure you use Spellcheck, or have someone else read it for you.

When you have been a job candidate, how have you kept your nerves under control?
I allow myself to be nervous, breathe, use pauses to collect my thoughts and even tell the interviewer I am nervous. They are expecting you to be nervous so it’s OK.

What else has worked for you in the past as a candidate?
Researching the company and the position helps me feel prepared and calms my nerves. I always do some mental role-play of potential interview questions and answers, plus think about my work experiences and how I can find examples which present me in the best light.

What is your perception of the recruitment industry at present?
It is very difficult for job seekers due to the competition. It is difficult for both job seekers and recruiters because of the lack of available positions and companies who are currently hiring.

How do you believe candidates should manage relationships with recruiters?
They should regard this relationship in the same way they as they do their resume – first impressions count.

What do you find most rewarding about delivering TalentWax?
Getting to know a candidate on a personal level and helping them focus on their own strengths and achievements.

What would you most like to achieve as a TalentWax consultant?
Each candidate to find their own job with new personal resources under their belt. They then may be able to use these skills in the day to day life both in work and at home.

What does success mean to you?
A sense of achievement of a job well done which leaves a smile on my face.

What do you like doing in your spare time?
Being in sunshine, spending time with family and laughing.

What are you passionate about?
Helping people, communicating, talking and human rights.

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?
When a TalentWax graduate joins a new employer and approaches us for recruitment services.

What is your greatest personal achievement?
Watching my two children grow into confident little people.

Which famous person would you like to be stuck in a lift with?
Tania Major, the Young Australian of the Year in 2007.

What’s your favourite book?
Too many to recount but Mao’s Last Dancer and A Fortunate Life are up there.

What are you focused on learning more about this year?
Managing my own personal finances!